Mystic Lake Hydroelectric – ILP Relicense

The 10.5 Mw Mystic Lake Hydroelectric license is scheduled to expire in 2009. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) initiated the new Integrated Licensing Process (ILP) in 2003 as the owner, PPL Montana, began its relicensing plans. GEI has been assisting PPL Montana with the ILP since the start.

The first step was to gather and organize all data relevant to preparation of the Pre-Application Document or PAD. GEI prepared a report summarizing the existing information about the biological resources at or near the Mystic Lake Project.

The next step was to develop a more complete database and prepare the PAD. GEI was charged with developing a coordinated PAD document covering all FERC requirements. The PAD included a list of issues in the project area. The PAD was submitted July 1, 2004 and accepted for filing at FERC.

Then a study plan was prepared in consultation with the stakeholders. This study plan outlined specific data collection that was needed to address issues outlined in the PAD through the use of 18 separate studies. The study plan was approved without dispute.

In 2005 we implemented the studies and prepared reports on the results. Studies included a review of fish populations and fish habitat in the project area, current and historic flow regimes, riparian habitat, sensitive plants, threatened and endangered species, and water quality.

Whitewater boating is an important recreational activity in the project area. GEI established web-based real-time streamflow monitoring, useful for recreationists and environmental compliance monitoring.

In 2006, GEI led the preparation of the Preliminary Licensing Proposal and assisted the client with settlement negotiations including minimum flows, flow protection engineering, whitewater boating, improved public facilities and 4(e) mandatory conditions from US Forest Service.

We maintain a project website so that stakeholders are kept abreast with meeting agendas, meeting summaries, study plans, reports, and all other official filings: www.mysticlakeproject.com